Columbia College President Dr. David Russell announced today the promotion of Sam Fleury to Chief Strategic Communications Officer, effective immediately. Fleury has served as Assistant Vice President for Strategic Communications the past three years.
Fleury joined the college’s staff in 2010 and has served in several roles within Advancement and Strategic Communications. In his new role, he will lead the Strategic Communications team in the development and execution of comprehensive, human-centric, data-driven communications strategies across all external media channels to promote the institution. He will also oversee internal communications initiatives and special projects for the Office of the President and the Board of Trustees.
“Sam’s commitment to Columbia College is evident in everything he does,” Russell said. “He brings a thoughtful, full-circle approach to storytelling that strengthens our connection with students, alumni, employees and partners. His institutional knowledge and servant leadership style make him an invaluable member of our senior leadership team.”
Throughout his tenure, Fleury has been recognized for his collaboration and service to the college community. In 2020, he received the Columbia College Professional Excellence Award, honoring a staff member who demonstrates leadership, adaptability, outstanding customer service and commitment to the college. In 2021, he was named the recipient of the Friend of Student Affairs Award for his significant contributions in partnership with the Division of Student Affairs to benefit students.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to continue driving Columbia College’s communications efforts in this new role,” Fleury said. “It is a privilege to work alongside a group of dedicated colleagues and to help tell the stories of our students, our faculty and staff, and the impact we make every day. I am thankful for the trust placed in me and excited about what lies ahead.”
Before joining Columbia College, Fleury worked from 2005 to 2010 as a client relations manager for JumpTV/NeuLion, an online collegiate sports marketing company. In that role, he served as the marketing contact for more than 30 collegiate athletic departments, including Ohio State University, the University of Minnesota and the Big East Conference.
Fleury started his career at the University of Missouri in 2000 as assistant director of athletic media relations. He facilitated day-to-day promotion and image management for Mizzou Athletics, particularly men’s basketball, women’s volleyball, softball, and men’s and women’s golf. He is a 2000 graduate of the University of Nebraska at Kearney, where he earned a degree in Sports Communications with a minor in Administration.
